Summer is just around the corner. It is the time of year when everyone wants to spend more time outside. There are a lot of options in the area to get outside and have fun in the sun. We are highlighting three new parks in Northern Virginia that you can visit this summer.
Widewater State Park is a new state park located in Stafford, VA that sits on a peninsula between Aquia Creek and the Potomac River. While the park is in the early stages of construction, there are a wide variety of activities that you can enjoy when you visit. You can rent paddle boards and kayaks and use them on the Aquia Creek side of the park. If you want to bring your own boat – they have a car-top boat launch and they expect to have launching capability for motor boats completed this Fall
There are 4 large picnic shelters that are available to rent. When not rented, they are available on a first come first serve basis. There are also several picnic table scattered throughout the park with grills if you want to go and have a picnic.
There are currently four camping sites that are paddle-in camping only. That means that you can’t access the sites by vehicle – they can only be accessed by kayak or canoe. But there are plans in place to build cabins and camping sites with vehicle access. There is also ample opportunity to fish at the shoreline – but you will need to have a freshwater fishing license and bring your own gear.
A little bit closer to Northern Virginia is Climb UPton – a new park that you will love if you are a climber. Climb UPton is a 90 element vertical adventure park located in Upton Hill Regional Park in Arlington. The park has has three zip lines, a 40-foot controlled freefall, tunnels, an Everest ladder, and an observation deck. There are varying levels of difficulty so it can be enjoyed by a first novice or experienced climber.
If you are looking for a park that is a little bit different – visit The Perch – the new Urban Park at Capital One Center in Tysons. You will find the “park in the sky” on top of the Capital One Hall and can enjoy all of its amenities. The park offers an 18 hole mini putt putt course, a games plaza, an amphitheater for outdoor concerts, modern sculptures, a beer garden and a variety of food options. You can come to play at or stroll through this unique park.
For more information about parks in Northern Virginia check out NoVA Parks and Virginia State Parks.
